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Sterling Troy LaBranch
1972 - 2026
On March 26, 2026, the Master Architect of our lives, who knows all things ahead of us, decided to call our brother Sterling Troy LaBranch home.
On September 11, 1972, a son was born to the union of Elizabeth Ann Alexander and Sterling LaBranch, at St. Charles Parish Hospital, in Luling, LA. Proud of their first born, he was named after his father, but he was affectionately known to others by his middle name, Troy.
Growing up, Sterling had many loved ones who imparted wisdom and spiritual knowledge into his life. He confessed Jesus as his Savior early and was baptized at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, in Boutte, LA, and attended Sunday and Vacation Bible School.
For most of his childhood and teenage years, Troy could be found doing what most boys his age would do–riding dirt bikes or playing sports. As a participant in recreational sports, his coaches recognized his athletic abilities quickly. Whether it was football, basketball, or participating in track and field events, Sterling was a natural, leading his junior high and high school teams to victories. Once in adulthood and desiring to inspire others, he shared his knowledge and skills and assisted in coaching neighborhood kids.
After graduating from Hahnville High School in May 1991, Sterling decided to enter directly into the workforce as a laborer. He was what one would call a free spirit and a jack-of-various-trades. Because he maintained an entrepreneurial spirit, he did not stay on anyone’s job too long, opting instead to use acquired skills to help anyone that he could. With a humble and compassionate heart, he requested meager pay but would pry a hearty meal out of you as well. Whether working independently or alongside his brother, Tarik, he was most content when he could engage in his hobbies of grass cutting, yard maintenance, or small projects.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his parents, Elizabeth Dorsey and Sterling (Samantha) LaBranch; three sisters, Shantrelle LaBranch Nash (Pernell), Twanisha Robinson, and Geonnie LaBranch; two brothers, Tarik Flot and Trey LaBranch; seven children, Jamal Smith, Shatece, Cierra, and Troylynne LaBranch; Makayla Duncan; Sterling LaBranch, Jr., and Gabriel Anthony; three grandchildren, Kason and Kaia Sandolph and Karsyn LaBranch; one godchild, Don Murray, Jr.; two uncles, Walter (Alta) Alexander and Nelson (Mary) Alexander; two aunts, Greta LaBranch and Debbie (Arthur) Bullock ; one great aunt, Ella Mae Feist Murray; godmother, Debra F. Thomas; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Ronald Dorsey; grandparents, Angerline Feist and Willie Alexander, Sr. and Earnestine Paceley and Irving LaBranch; three aunts, Erma and Leotha (Tobe) Alexander, and Celestine (Lawrence) Williams; five uncles, Willie Jr., Richard, and Allen (Lizzie Mae) Alexander, Melvin Honor, Sr., and Brad LaBranch; and godfather, Edward Feist.
Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, Officers and Members of Mt. Airy Baptist Church and all neighboring Churches are invited to the Celebration of Life Servicesat 11:00am on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Mt. Airy Baptist Church, 13635 Old Spanish Trail, Boutte, LA 70039. Pastor Clyde Staes. Visitation will begin at 9:00am until the time of service at the above-named Church. Interment Mt. Zion Garden of Memory, Paul Maillard, Rd, Boutte, LA. Final Arrangements entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919. “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission.”